Sakae Sushi

sakae sushi restaurant

For sushi aficionados across California, especially those in the Orange County region, the quest for truly outstanding Japanese cuisine often leads to unexpected discoveries. Sakae Sushi, nestled in Newport Beach, is precisely one such find, frequently described by delighted patrons as an "underrated" gem. In a landscape brimming with sushi options, Sakae Sushi distinguishes itself by delivering an authentic and exceptionally high-quality experience that resonates deeply with discerning diners. Its reputation stems from a remarkable combination of fresh, incredible sushi and a level of customer service that truly stands out.

What sets Sakae Sushi apart is its ability to evoke a sense of genuine Japanese culinary excellence. Customers have compared their experience to the caliber of sushi found in San Francisco, indicating a rare level of quality in Southern California. Each roll and piece of nigiri is crafted with precision, showcasing "a different flavor, style, and presentation," ensuring that every visit offers a fresh and exciting culinary journey. Beyond the exquisite food, the atmosphere is enriched by incredibly nice employees and chefs who are not only masters of their craft but also personable and engaging, creating a "really cool and humble experience." This dedication to both gastronomic perfection and outstanding hospitality firmly places Sakae Sushi as a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an authentic and unforgettable Japanese meal in Newport Beach.

Sakae Sushi is conveniently located at 123 23rd St, Newport Beach, CA 92663, USA. This address places it within a vibrant and easily accessible part of Newport Beach, making it a practical and appealing dining option for both locals and visitors to the area. Its location on 23rd Street offers a charming neighborhood feel, slightly set back from the busiest thoroughfares, which can contribute to a more relaxed dining atmosphere.

For those traveling by car, parking availability is a crucial factor in Newport Beach. While specific, dedicated parking for Sakae Sushi is not explicitly detailed in general public information, restaurants in this area typically rely on a combination of street parking and nearby public lots. It's often advisable to factor in potential street parking (which might be metered in some areas) or to check for local public parking structures within walking distance, especially during peak dining hours. Its position in a well-established part of Newport Beach usually means that parking solutions are available, though they might require a short walk.

Sakae Sushi maintains consistent operating hours to serve its clientele. They are open Tuesday through Sunday from 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM, and are closed on Mondays. This schedule allows for both lunch and dinner service throughout most of the week, providing ample opportunity for patrons to experience their highly-rated sushi. The combination of an easily locatable address and predictable hours ensures that Sakae Sushi remains a convenient and welcoming spot for satisfying Japanese cuisine cravings in Newport Beach.

• Dine-In Service: Sakae Sushi offers a comfortable and authentic dining environment, where customers can enjoy a full Japanese culinary experience. The atmosphere is praised for its authentic feel, enhancing the enjoyment of the meal.

• Extensive Sushi and Sashimi Selection: The menu features a wide variety of sushi and sashimi, including classic options like Bluefin Tuna, Salmon, Yellowtail, and Albacore. They also offer specialty cuts like Salmon Belly and Toro, ensuring high-quality fresh fish options.

• Unique and Creative Rolls: Customers specifically highlight that "every roll has a different flavor, style, and presentation." The menu includes a diverse range of rolls, from traditional California and Spicy Tuna to unique creations like "Yuzu Yellowtail," "I Love Salmon," "Yellowtail Bomb," "Onion Blossom Albacore," and various baked and deep-fried rolls, providing options for every preference.

• Carpaccio and Starter Dishes: Sakae Sushi offers a selection of carpaccio (Tuna, Salmon, Yellowtail, Albacore) and appetizers such as Tempura (assorted vegetables, shrimp, rock shrimp), Agedashi Tofu, Green Mussels, and various salads (Seaweed, Salmon Skin, Sashimi, House Salad).

• Bento Boxes and Entrees: For those seeking a more comprehensive meal, they offer Dinner Bento Combinations served with rice, miso soup, seaweed, and house salad, with choices like Chicken Teriyaki, Salmon Teriyaki, and Bulgogi. Other entrees include Karaage Bowl and various Udon noodle dishes.

• Hand Rolls: A selection of hand rolls is available, including Tiger Hand Roll, Scallop Hand Roll, and Spicy Scallop Hand Roll.

• Takeout Service: Sakae Sushi provides takeout options, allowing customers to enjoy their high-quality Japanese cuisine from the comfort of their homes. It is advised to call ahead for takeout orders to confirm.

• "Underrated" and High-Quality Sushi: Sakae Sushi is consistently described as "underrated" by customers, with many stating it offers some of the "best sushi" they've ever had, even comparing it favorably to renowned sushi establishments in larger cities like San Francisco. This speaks volumes about the exceptional quality of their fish and preparation.

• Incredibly Fresh Fish: The core of Sakae Sushi's appeal lies in the freshness of its ingredients. Reviews emphasize the "incredible" quality of the sushi, implying a dedication to sourcing the finest and freshest seafood, which is paramount for an authentic sushi experience.

• Authentic Feel and Experience: Customers frequently commend the restaurant for its "authentic feel," suggesting that the ambiance, preparation, and perhaps even the interactions with the staff, transport them to a genuine Japanese dining setting.

• Outstanding Customer Service: The service at Sakae Sushi receives consistent high praise, described as "outstanding" and featuring "very nice employees." This level of attentiveness and friendliness significantly enhances the overall dining experience, making guests feel valued and welcomed.

• Engaging and Humble Chefs: A particularly unique highlight is the interaction with the sushi chefs. One review enthusiastically mentions a chef asking for a photo and taking one with them, calling it a "really cool and humble experience." This personal touch fosters a memorable connection with the staff and the culinary process.

• Diverse Flavors, Styles, and Presentations for Rolls: Each roll is a unique creation, noted for its "different flavor, style, and presentation." This indicates a creative and artful approach to roll making, ensuring variety and visual appeal in addition to taste.

• Variety of Menu Items Beyond Basic Sushi: While sushi is a highlight, Sakae Sushi offers a comprehensive Japanese menu including various sashimi, carpaccio (Tuna, Salmon, Yellowtail, Albacore), appetizers like tempura and Agedashi Tofu, and even larger entrees like Chicken/Salmon Teriyaki and Udon, catering to a wide range of Japanese food preferences.

• "10/10 Will Definitely Be Returning": This high praise from customers indicates a strong likelihood of repeat business, a clear sign of customer satisfaction and loyalty, crucial for a local business.

While specific, regularly advertised promotions like daily happy hours or "50% off rolls" are not explicitly detailed in the provided customer reviews for Sakae Sushi, many high-quality Japanese restaurants, particularly those with an authentic focus, often engage in other forms of value creation or special offerings. The emphasis at Sakae Sushi appears to be on consistent quality and exceptional service, which in itself is a significant draw.

• Consistent High Quality as a Value Proposition: The consistent praise for "incredible" sushi and "outstanding" customer service can be seen as the primary "promotion" for Sakae Sushi. For many diners, especially in a competitive market like California, the assurance of a top-tier, authentic experience is more valuable than a discounted price on a potentially lower-quality product.

• Seasonal & Chef's Specials: Authentic Japanese restaurants often feature seasonal fish or unique creations based on the freshest available ingredients. It's highly probable that Sakae Sushi, given its commitment to quality and diverse styles, offers daily or weekly specials curated by their chefs. These aren't typically "promotions" in the discount sense but provide a unique, limited-time culinary experience.

• Lunch Combinations/Bento Boxes: Many Japanese restaurants offer set lunch menus or bento boxes that provide a variety of items at a fixed, often more accessible price point than à la carte dinner options. Sakae Sushi's menu listing of "Dinner Bento Combination" suggests they may have similar lunch offerings that provide good value.

To discover any potential current specials, new menu additions, or seasonal offerings, it is always recommended for interested customers to contact Sakae Sushi directly at (949) 675-8899 or check their official website or social media channels if available. This ensures they receive the most accurate and up-to-date information on what truly makes a visit to Sakae Sushi a special occasion.

To experience the incredible sushi and outstanding service at Sakae Sushi, here's their contact information:

• Address: 123 23rd St, Newport Beach, CA 92663, USA

• Phone: (949) 675-8899

For inquiries about hours, menu specifics, or to inquire about seating availability, calling ahead is always recommended.

For residents of Newport Beach and sushi connoisseurs across California, Sakae Sushi stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended local establishment. Its core appeal lies in its consistent delivery of "incredible" and "authentic" sushi, a quality that is highly prized in a state with such a discerning palate for Japanese cuisine. The repeated comparison to top-tier sushi in San Francisco is a powerful testament to the culinary excellence found right here in Orange County.

Beyond the food, what truly cements Sakae Sushi as a local favorite is the outstanding customer service and the genuinely warm interactions with the staff, including the chefs. This creates a welcoming and personalized dining experience that makes patrons feel valued and eager to return. The "authentic feel" of the place transforms a meal into a cultural experience, fostering a deep connection that goes beyond mere consumption. For locals seeking a reliable spot for genuinely high-quality sushi, a friendly atmosphere, and a place where they feel appreciated and can even share a laugh with their chef, Sakae Sushi is an undeniable fit. It's not just a restaurant; it's a valued part of the community's culinary landscape, earning its place in the regular "roto" of favorite dining spots for any true sushi lover in California.

Sakae Sushi

123 23rd St, Newport Beach, CA 92663, USA